text:
Weight Loss Challenge
Posted Sep 28, 2009 @ 10:34 PM
My goal for the length of the season is to get to "One-derland". I started out at 328 lbs at the begining of last December and weighed in last week at 221. That means losing 22 lbs by the time this season ends and I think I can do it.
Anyone know when exactly this season will end?
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 1:07 AM
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 7:18 AM
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 8:03 AM
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 9:44 AM
Wow, Dust Cover, 107 pounds in less than a year! That's pretty amazing! Good work! Welcome to the challenge, missyprissy!
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 6:22 PM
I want to lose 15-20lb by Dec. I am trying by exercising more and counting WW points.
I know I keep starting and not being successful but hopefully this will help keep me on track.
I have lost 3 lb in the last 2 weeks.
So far this week has been a challenge, but tomorrow is a new day!
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 8:14 PM
This week is going to be super challenging. Having a social life is my downfall. I'm catching up with a friend tomorrow over dinner, M. Grey is having a big birthday happy hour celebration on Thursday, and wants me to take him to his favorite restaurant (which is also my favorite) over the weekend. Ugh!
Edited by mmegrey, Sep 29, 2009 @ 8:17 PM.
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 9:03 PM
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 9:59 PM
I am only 5' tall, and medium boned, which might be disguised as small boned, but my shoulders are pretty wide. I am built like Shawn Johnson (although fat!)
Edited by TWoP Gadget, Sep 30, 2009 @ 8:41 AM.
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 10:31 PM
- 0
Posted Sep 29, 2009 @ 11:20 PM
Last Tuesday was 295.
Today 294. Considering that Friday was 295, losing 3 pounds over the weekend was not to bad.
Goal by Christmas is 270.
Final goal 180-Doctor figures about 15-20 pounds of loose skin will need to be removed bringing me down to 160. (Considering that at my heaviest I was 426, I will have a lot of loose skin). Being 5' 7" with a large frame (from the Weight Loss Issues Thread) I have a 7" wrist. It is at the higher end but my Doctor would be very pleased with that.
Good luck everyone.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 12:15 AM
"What is your body frame size?
(wrap your thumb and major fingers around your smallest part of your wrist)?
Small Frame (the fingers overlap)
Medium Frame (the fingers barely touch)
Large Frame (the fingers don't touch)"
By those calculations, my frame is "Small," since my fingers easily overlap my thumb when I circle my wrist.
Anyone have any insight into the difference between those two readings? I consider myself a "medium" just based on what sweater size I used to wear at my smallest adult weight (135 lbs.).
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 6:12 AM
I'm 5'7'' as well, and by the wrist test, my finger overlap, so that would be small, but I'm not sure if that's right so I measured my wrist and it was 6 inches. Whatever that means.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 9:18 AM
Right now I am monitoring my calorie intake on sparkpeople.com. I find that I am much more energetic, have less headaches and stomachaches since I have started eating healthier. I have also cut down on the alcohol. It's difficult being in the 20's and 30's in NYC. I don't plan on drinking until my birthday. I try to eat between 1500 and 1800 calories a day, but for some reason for the past three days, I haven't been able to eat more than 1300 calories. I cannot stick to the Biggest Loser diet of 1200 calories for women. I noticed that on both days I ate less than 150 g of carbs. I may try a low carb diet as an experiment to see if it keeps me full as it has for the past two days. I also try to go to the gym at least three times a week. I usually do strength training at home twice a week with ten pound weights, resistance bands, and squats.
I wish everyone the best on their weight loss journey.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 9:45 AM
I try to keep a food diary and usually do well for a couple days then I stop usually over the weekend. I've decide to not let this stop me and just start my food diary again Monday. I do find it a useful tool. I check my total calories and ask do I really need that snack??? I try to keep my calorie intake between 1500-1800. This and exercising should give me a 1-2 lb weight loss each week, I hope.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 9:48 AM
I had already decided to lose 20 lbs by Christmas, so this will give me additional motivation. And I need all the motivation I can get my hands on. And I will name my motivation George and I will hug it and pet it and squeeze it.
I weigh on Sundays:
Starting (Sept. 27) = 203
Goal by Christmas = 183 (9.85% of current weight to lose)
I'll still need to lose after this but 1 goal at a time. I only started with food this week and will start adding exercising next week. Makes me feel a little lazy as I watch the contestants on TBL.
Edited to fix my weight which is large enough without adding on another pound.
Edited by Pixelady, Sep 30, 2009 @ 7:22 PM.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 10:31 AM
I usually weigh in on Mondays. So last check in I was 239.6 - I'm not little by any means, but people are usually surprised when they see the actual number.
I'm 5'5" and have a 7" wrist, which puts me in the large boned category.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 10:38 AM
I weigh in on Saturdays at WW, so my starting weight is 177.4
I would like to get down to 159 by the end of the season. This seemed more reasonable before I gained 2 lbs last week ...
That thread about frame size was really interesting! I also have a 7" wrist and never even considered that I could have a large frame just shy of 5'5
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 11:02 AM
I'm starting at 181, and by the end of the season, I'd like to be at 165. I'm 5'4", post-menopausal and an apple, with a medium frame. Since last December, I've lost almost 40 pounds going from a 22W pant to a 16 regular, and I'm kinda at the halfway mark. I'm also exercising 4-5 times a week (elliptical, lots of walking and dragging a shopping cart full of groceries)
So, count me in!
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 12:16 PM
I'm 5'8" and currently fluctuate between 165 and 167 (started at 186). I'd like to eventually end up at 150, which is where I was 10 years ago when I was in my best shape at 24. People are sometimes surprised that I weigh that much as I tend to carry it fairly well - spread out rather than in one place I guess! I currently wear size 8 - 10 pants (depending on the store) and I'd like to be firmly in the comfortable size 8 category.
For me the key is diet as I do exercise quite hard and fairly regularly (I ran 10K on Sunday and did a 75 min spin class and weights last night). However, I eat out too much and I love chips! Anyway, I'm trying to bring lunch to work and cook dinner at home and I'm tracking my diet and exercise with the Lose It! application for iPhone. If any of you have an iPhone and don't have this yet - get it - it is great.
Good luck everyone!
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 12:53 PM
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 2:01 PM
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 2:39 PM
Looks like most of us are aiming for a 20 lbs. loss by mid-December. That's my goal too. Starting at 239, as of this a.m. I was 259 last summer, at my highest-ever weight. I'd like to be 219 by Christmas.
Definite hour-glass here, 13" difference bust-to-waist-to-hips. When I tested my waist to hip ratio on some site, it said "Looks like you are doing fine, keep it up!" because the ratio was good. Well, obviously I need to get the absolute numbers down, ratio regardless.
For me, it's a question of getting enough exercise. I've been keeping a food journal, going by recommendations at the Mypyramid.gov site, and my eating habits are fine. I just need to make sure to get one hour of intense exercise in every day, or my weight loss completely stalls.
I am following some of the meal plans in "The Flat-Belly Diet." I like the overall concept of including nuts, olive oil, and other mono-unsaturated fats at every meal. Their plan keeps me satisfied and includes all the basic food groups in reasonable proportions, so it seems a healthy way to eat.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 4:22 PM
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 10:36 PM
And on a sad note, people think I am pregnant on the metro, and try to give me their seat. It is pretty embarrassing.
When I first realized that was what was happening I said "no" and the person was really insistent. Finally I was like, I am just fat.
And then burst into tears.
I have to keep remembering that to keep me motivated.
Although I haven't been super great about exercising, I am making a real effort to walk alot.
I get off at the furthest metro stop I can in the AM (that will still let me be on time for work!) And I take a 1/2 hour-45 min walk around at lunch. I can't go too fast because I don't want to get all sweaty. But now that the cooler weather is coming that will be better.
- 0
Posted Sep 30, 2009 @ 11:09 PM
Let's go for it!
- 0
Posted Oct 1, 2009 @ 5:17 AM
- 0
Posted Oct 1, 2009 @ 12:14 PM
I don't know why but I'm finding this season totally more motivating than other seasons. I don't know if it's my mindset but at exercise class I'm pushing myself more this year because of the show.
- 0
Posted Oct 1, 2009 @ 12:19 PM
I had a baby in June and would like to lose my baby weight and then some. My main goal is to be able to wear my pre-pregnancy clothes.
Also, my dad passed away in January from a heart attack. I would really like to change my eating habits to have better heart health. I love greasy, fried foods, and I'm an apple shape, which is not a good combination.
My other problem is that I would much rather be curled up in bed with a good book or tv show than work out. I've heard exercise releases enorphins, I've just not found them yet.
I am 5'9 and according to the guidelines posted previously, I am a small frame. I currently weigh 165 and am still wearing my maternity pants and tops most of the time. I would like to be back in my regular clothes (size 8 to 10) by December.
- 0
Posted Oct 2, 2009 @ 8:25 AM
One thing Daniel said in the first episode has stayed in mind. He said something like "I'm happy now" or "now I can be happy. So I'd like to ask those of you who've lost weight if you are happier now. I have to say that I am, but it's not just because I've lost weight.
- 0


text:
Applications for the 2014 Class are being accepted now and must be completed by March 1, 2014. The 2013 Class is already filled. Current enrollment in missing prerequisites is not required to apply, but must be completed by the established timeframe to be eligible for the 2014 program.
By applying early to VWCC and submitting official transcripts of high school and college coursework, Pam Woody (Health Professions Information Specialist) will be able to help you with your course selections each semester. This would allow us to advise you in a timely manner of any prerequisite requirements you have not met and how you may meet those requirements, as well as selecting courses that can be utilized to increase the cumulative GPA by the end of the Fall '13 semester. You would also be notified of any additional material you would be expected to provide prior to the deadline. Miss Woody will also notify you of any changes in the curriculum that might affect your future course selections prior to entering the program. You must take the responsibility for submitting all material on time and being flexible on scheduling entrance exam with no advance notice.
We require all application material(s) be submitted directly to Health Professions - if you fail to do so, be aware we will not be responsible for any delays in processing your file. Complete the following and submit (if applicable) in one envelope to Pam Woody, VWCC-Health Professions, P.O. Box 14007, Roanoke, VA 24038.
If any school refuses to issue "official" transcripts directly to a student, please request they be sent addressed directly to Pam Woody at the address above. Please do not request transcripts from VWCC or any other community college in Virginia. Transfer information provided on a subsequent school's transcript is not acceptable in lieu of the actual originating school's transcript. College graduates must still provide their official High School transcript. GED holders must also submit official high school transcripts if completed at least through the 9th grade, in addition to a copy of the GED scores. Home-schooled students must provide a detailed curriculum progress/grade report from their school administrator. Put all transcripts with your Nursing application into one envelope and mail to the address above.
Please note: The GPA is calculated at the end of the Fall 2013 semester. All early applicants who attempt or complete college courses at non-VCCS institutions after their initial academic file is complete must submit updated "official" transcripts after Fall '13 grades are posted, to be received at VWCC prior to the March 1, 2014 deadline. All updated transcripts need to be sent directly to Attn: Pam Woody at the address given above. All applicants should receive a Nursing Advising form letter after the academic file is reviewed by the Health Careers Information Specialist (usually 3-4 weeks after receipt if received from May - December). You can review this presentation to learn more about the application process and eligibility.
We use VW Alert to immediately contact you during a major crisis or emergency.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
|Sponsored Links
This could easily end up being Kaepernick vs. Campbell if neither QB's are cleared to play. Could be a very sloppy game.... especially if it rains.
49ers, Athletics, Warriors = Life!
49ers = 12-4
Warriors = 51-31 Making it rain!
A's = 13-6 Back to Back AL West Champs!
The Kern County Fair is coming to the Stick?
Have fun bud.
Words cannot describe them.
lol, please' top 10 p4p- Mayweather/Ward/Marquez/Pacquiao/Maidana/Rigondeaux/Froch/Cotto/B-Hop/Canelo
Boxing fan? Come discuss Boxing!
"We are chasing greatness" Mark Jackson 3/7/14
I know California, and I know Ridgecrest.
I'd try to eat/drink as much as I could at the tailgate. Prices are ridiculous, and the garlic fries are better at AT&T, compared to Candlestick. I guess you should try them out though
|Sponsored Links
Save your money and come when we host the bears in the playoffs....lol jk always good to visit SF but
Do you really wanna see ALEX vs CAMBELL (human checkdown) as a bears fan... Luv Ur D this year ( on fantasy team) but I'd be really bummed out if that's the case ... Gonna be a long day
49ers.....:10-3-1 gotta luv the tie(last one ever.Callin it)
SHARKS... NHL givin us some time
GIANTS.... 2010 CHAMPS and 2012 WOW!!!
SDSU AZTECS... Ranked #17 all day
GS WARRIORS..Watch out lake show**updateClip show
[x]resign Pagan/Affeldft/Marco
[]sign HAMILTON Awww
[ ] sign G.Sizemore/T.Harfner BENCH 1y - 1 mil
[ ] sign Mike Adams 3y - 12mil
[ ] resign the BEARD/MVPOSEY (make it rain sabs)
[ ] REPEAT 3 outta 4
There's a bunch of psd guys who have had these tickets for a while now. Plus the NFC championship game is gonna be in Chicago
2012 World Series Champs Auto Checklist: Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez (2), Ryan Vogelsong, George Kontos (2), Buster Posey, Brian Sabean, Bruce Bochy, Brandon Crawford, Sergio Romo, Barry Zito...
2012 World Series Champs Auto Checklist: Jeremy Affeldt, Javier Lopez (2), Ryan Vogelsong, George Kontos (2), Buster Posey, Brian Sabean, Bruce Bochy, Brandon Crawford, Sergio Romo, Barry Zito...
|Sponsored Links


text:
See Details
-Beijing (Tianjin), China
-Cruise the Yellow Sea
-Seoul (Inchon), South Korea
-Shanghai, China
-Cruise the Taiwan Strait
-Xiamen, China
-Hong Kong, China
-Cruise the South China Sea
-Hanoi (Ha Long Bay), Vietnam
-Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam
-Cruise the Gulf of Thailand
-Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand
-Ko Samui, Thailand
-Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia
-Penang, Malaysia
-Phuket, Thailand
-Cruise the Andaman Sea
-Cruise the Indian Ocean
-Galle, Sri Lanka
-Colombo, Sri Lanka
-Cochin, India
-New Mangalore, India
-Goa (Mormugao), India
-Mumbai (Bombay), India
-Muscat (Port Qaboos), Oman
-Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Enjoy this marvelous old Portuguese and Hindu city studded with vibrant temples and majestic churches. Visit the stunning baroque cathedral and quaint, colorful Panjim for a taste of Portugal in India. Explore the countryside and its spice farms, local markets and the region's exquisite beaches. Buy fragrant spices and search for colorful local crafts in the bustling markets. Enjoy fresh seafood, curries, stuffed oysters and roast suckling pig among other tasty specialties.
As shore excursions to be offered in this port are not yet confirmed, below is a list of those offered previously. We make every effort to have excursions finalized at least 240 days in advance of sailing, and often sooner, so please check back regularly.
On this full-day excursion, delight in the culinary wonders of the region, and discover Goa's unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, where Christianity and Hinduism exist side by side.
Begin with a drive from the port, through the lush green countryside to Old Goa. Here you will visit the magnificent Se Cathedral, consecrated in 1640 and built in the Portuguese-Gothic style and breathtaking Corinthian interior. Tour the elegant basilica of Bom Jesus, built of black laterite stone with marble and inlaid precious stones. The most honored and famous of all the churches in Old Goa, the Bom Jesus contains the tomb and mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier who spread Christianity in the Portuguese colonies.
Leaving Old Goa, proceed to the Mahalsa Temple one of the most famous temples in Goa. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It displays the distinctive Hindu style prevalent in the early 18th century, with massive wooden pillars and a silver framed door. The six-storied `deepstambha' or ornamental lamp pillar in the courtyard is 40 feet in height and has 21 rings of a hundred fifty small lamps. A fascinating spectacle when it is lit up with oil wicks on the annual festival day or Jatra.
Continue to the Sahakari Spice Farm, set on more than 130 acres of verdant forestland and home to more than 84 different species of bird, 100 varieties of orchids, and almost every spice imaginable. Take a guided tour of the grounds and inhale the aromas of beetle nuts, peppers, turmeric root, cinnamon and cashew trees, as well as the vanilla plant. Learn about the natural healing properties of spices, and sample refreshing lemon grass tea made from boiled water, fresh lemon grass, ginger, and cardamom. Enjoy a sumptuous traditional Goanese lunch, using the local spices grown on the farm.
Return to the ship following your pleasant afternoon at the spice farm.
Please note: Order of sites visited may vary.
Terms & Conditions:
Free Unlimited Shore Excursions are for full fare guests only, capacity controlled and subject to availability. Requested excursions may not be available at time of booking. Supplement will apply on Regent Choice excursions (indicated by the above) and excludes Private Arrangements and all Adventures Ashore programs. In order to ensure quality guides and sufficient transportation, we must provide the tour operator with passenger counts at least 36 hours in advance. Therefore no refunds will be given within 36 hours of tour departure for cancellations or no-shows. Please pay special attention to scheduling and tour lengths when booking your shore excursions. In many cases, it is not possible to participate in more than one tour per day in a given port. Tour Departure times are subject to change so please reference your actual tour ticket for the correct departure time. Tours operate rain or shine. Minor children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a an adult parent or guardian on all shore excursions. Tours require minimum participation levels to operate so please sign up as early as possible. Tours may be cancelled if minimum participation levels are not met. Prices, Itineraries and General Information shore excursion prices are subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases or currency fluctuations. Please consult the Destination Services Desk onboard for information. During local or national holidays, access to certain facilities (such as museums or archaeological sites) may be limited or denied. In such instances, adjustments will be made to minimize inconvenience to guests. Some tours have limited availability. Tours are generally available for reserving 180 days prior to the beginning of a cruise. Please sign up early to avoid disappointment. Regent Seven Seas Cruises reserves the right to require guests to complete a liability waiver for select shore excursions. For more information, please visit the Destination Services Desk onboard.
Please have a preferred travel agency partner contact me about this cruise.
Remember my preference.
To email this page to a friend, type in the recipient's email address, your name and email address, and an optional message. Then click "Send".
Your message has been sent.


text:
2012 A&P Salary Range Update
The purpose of salary ranges is to provide managers accurate, up-to-date market information from which to make pay decisions. In order to ensure salary ranges continue to reflect current, competitive market rates of pay, Human Resources conducts a comprehensive review of salary ranges (salary structure) every year, alternating between the Classified, and A&P salary structures. The most recent structure review on the A&P salary range structure was implemented April 1, 2012.
Q: What's the nature of this review?
Basically we compare the salary ranges of many A&P jobs to the most recently published salary survey data (market data) for those same jobs. Through this process we can determine if wage rates have increased over time (since they were last reviewed). Based on this data, we make an appropriate recommendation for a change, if needed, to bring the ranges up to current market levels.
Q: What were the results from the recent A&P review?
Based on our most recent comprehensive review, A&P salary ranges were increased by 2.5%, effective April 1, 2012.
Q: When salary ranges increase, is there an impact to individual employee salaries?
Employee salaries are impacted only if an existing salary falls below the revised salary range minimum. In this case, the employee's salary will be brought up to the new range minimum.
Q: Why wouldn't all salaries increase?
While it's important that salary ranges and individual salaries remain competitive, there are separate processes to address ranges and individual salaries. Salary ranges are updated using the review processes described above. Individual salaries are reviewed regularly, and as warranted on an individual basis, by management and can increase through merit, equity increases, and promotions.
Q: What if I have additional questions, or would like to further discuss?
If you have questions about the salary ranges, or the update process, you are always welcome to contact HR Compensation. Your Compensation contacts are: Jenny Jung at 458-4254 and Catina Rover at 458-4259.
Page updated: April 25, 2012


text: Eldorado Mexican Restaurant bringing you the best Mexican flavors in town with great food amazing cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. Eldorado's makes an ideal venue for private functions and events too. Our chefs use only the finest ingredients, combined with exotic spices and a passionate belief in food. The Eldorado's is the perfect location for meeting friends after work.


text:
Cat Lounger with Scratch Post
Cat essentials are made with natural banana leaves. Resting areas feature soft fleece for a gentle feel and cozy catnaps. The cat's playhouse offers a variety of playing room. Condos and teasers are ideal for moderate play. Beige.
Size: 18" x 18" x 23"
Customers Ratings and Reviews
Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers


text: Renewable Energy Gets $100 Billion Globally In 2006, global investment in renewable energy topped $100 billion. Published on: Jul 16, 2007 Tweet Post to Your Wall. Email Story RSS Permalink Print Total global investment in renewable energy technologies was 25% higher in 2006 than the year before, topping $100 billion, according to a United Nations Environment Programme analysis. The majority of that money - $71 billion - was invested in companies and new sector opportunities, 43% more than the year before. Another $30 billion came from mergers, acquisitions, buyouts, and asset refinancing. Most of the investments are going towards wind power, solar energy, and biofuels, with $28 billion invested in new generating capacity. To read the report, visit www.unep.org/pdf/SEFI_report-GlobalTrendsInSustainableEnergyInverstment07.pdf.


text:
The Jaguar is an ideal choice for the archer wanting to give the traditional side a serious try. Laminated wood and glass limbs offer a smooth draw, but send an arrow with authority. Limbs can be easily removed from the riser for convenient transport to your hunting spot and storage in the off-season. Priced affordably, too. So why not let your curiosity get the best of you and give traditional a shot? Chances are, you'll be glad you did!
Order yours ONLINE today!
Please Note: This item is shipped directly from the factory. To see the expected shipping date, please add to your Shopping Cart. Sorry, no express shipping available. We are unable to ship factory direct items to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico or APO or FPO addresses.
Martin Archery® Jaguar Take-Down Bow
You qualify for a free gift. It will be added to your cart automatically.
Shop Similar Items
to find something that we have now or that can be backordered.
If you would like to be notified when we have this item available for sale, click
and enter your email address to receive an email notification.


text:
This is the gently inclined mattress topper that provides relief from the symptoms of heartburn, sinus congestion, and snoring. The mattress topper starts level with the foot of the bed and inclines subtly, raising a sleeper's upper body to reduce acid reflux and allow gravity to gently drain sinus passages. The interior is made from soft yet supportive cooling gel memory foam that contours to the shape of the body to relieve pressure points and provides a comfortable cushion on which to sleep. The memory foam stays cool to the touch and it won't develop permanent depressions as it immediately reclaims its original form when you get up.
May we recommend:
COPYRIGHT © 2014 HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER & COMPANY, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. W100HAMMACHER SCHLEMMER • 147 E. 57th ST • NEW YORK, NY • 10022 • 1-800-321-1484


text:
Galaxy Nexus vs. The Competition
Samsung Galaxy Nexus vs Samsung Galaxy S2 Skyrocket: Which is the Better Smartphone?
Is your Nexus rebooting or losing Wi-Fi connection? This could be why
Android 4.4 and Custom ROMs: it's available for these devices
Android 4.4 for Verizon Galaxy Nexus (Toro)
Show more articles


text:
Moderators: Cartographers, Global Moderators
thehippo8 wrote:Sounds close ... my 2c worth is that perhaps you could switch the yellows between Wellington and Otago? The deeper yellow may serve better against the white plane? But again, don't do that if it's going to make South Island look ugly!
Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 2 guests


text:
Aloha, the first part of November we did not have much plankton at "Manta Heaven" which resulted in five nights of being skunked. But Shirley Ray saved us on four nights when she was the only Manta Ray to check on the "buffet".
We always have to remember that this experience is not about Manta Rays meeting "humans"; it is definitely all about food. The Manta Rays care less who is attached to the lights, but they do care about the food in front of the lights. This being said, when we have no plankton at the established manta sites, then the Manta Rays have no reason to come.
"Manta Village", on the other hand, has had consistent manta sightings. Most nights have had 2 or 3 which is an average for this site. We are always happy when 1 Manta Ray shows up and Kailey Ray has come to feed every night so far.
Our youngster Jana Ray has joined the "dinner table" as a regular now and has really "opened up" to the snorkelers. She was first identified last August, but was not seen again until October. She used to stay on the outskirts and was a very shy girl. This month all that has changed and within 2 week she is now comfortable with real close-ups to the snorkelers; and we mean sometimes just inches away. This is awesome.
Here is a quick overview of the numbers we have seen this month so far:
There has also been many manta sightings during the daytime in current lines. Our friend and boat operator Ron Gittins of Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures identified a beautiful pelagic Manta Ray. He named it "Rami Ray", which pronounces: "ray me ray".
Both images were taken by Jerry Busheff.
With Aloha
Martina, Ryan and Jim


text:
CEO John Chambers is trying to keep the Cisco Systems ship from sinking, and to lighten the load it appears he's willing to dump many of his crew members overboard.
The company could lay off as many as 10,000 employees by the end of this summer, two people familiar with the situation told Bloomberg. About 7,000 employees will be involuntarily eliminated, with the rest of the reductions coming through early-retirement buyouts. The layoffs would reduce the overall staff by about 14%.
Cisco acknowledged "a planned reduction in workforce" in a statement to FINS and said that more details would be coming in an earnings call on August 10.
Cisco said that it would be reducing its headcount when it announced the euthanizing of its Flip camera division, but the size of the cuts being reported this morning is larger than most expected. The San Jose, Calif.-based networking company has been trying to reorient itself toward success after a string of ill-advised acquisitions and amid mounting competition from rivals like Hewlett-Packard and Juniper Networks.
Cisco is a classic start-up success story, growing from a mom-and-pop operation into an $85 billion company. But analysts say that the company has simply grown too large and that it can't sustain its 70,000-plus workforce.
One commentator, though, argues that the layoffs could lead to an even faster downward spiral for the company. Cisco's problem is a lack of innovation, Seeking Alpha writes, and how can it innovate more with less employees? Not to mention the impact the jobs cuts will have on employee morale, perhaps prompting remaining workers to switch companies before the next round of pink slips.
Green Tech Doomed (Cnet)
The reluctance and inability of governments around the world to spend money means green technology is doomed, a new article in the journal Foreign Affairs argues. The green tech industry is still largely reliant on governmental customers.
Good Retail Tech Jobs (Reuters)
Retailers are sitting on lots of cash and about half say that they'll spend it on IT and analytical tools to expand their businesses. Retailers are especially interested in using analytics to improve sales and marketing.
Bridging the Skills Gap (Economix)
More job seekers are taking classes at local community colleges to bone up on the skills they need to get jobs in aerospace and biotechnology.
Facebook Poaches Another Googler (AllThingsD)
After five years working at Google, Tom Stocky is the latest Googler to defect to Facebook, where he will be a director of product.
Color Loses Exec (Business Insider)
DJ Patil has resigned as chief product officer at photo-sharing start-up Color. Patil joined the company just six months ago after a two-year stint at LinkedIn.
Life Inside Early Google (WSJ)
Google's 59th employee has written his memoirs of what it was like to work there before the company became a household name. Not a lot of scandal or tawdry details, but the book offers an inside look at the company's rise.
H-P Re-org (San Jose Mercury News)
H-P has appointed Jon Rubinstein, an Apple veteran who helped develop the iPod, as its head of product development for PCs, tablets and smartphones. Rubinstein joined H-P through the company's acquisition of Palm, where he was CEO.
Hedgies Seek Techies (WSJ)
Hedge funds are increasingly investing in private Internet companies like daily deals site LivingSocial in an effort to cash in on the sky-high valuations tech companies are attracting.
Google+ A Big Hit (Cnet)
Is Mark Zuckerberg shaking in his hoodie somewhere? Google's new social networking service is expected to reach 10 million users today, and 20 million by Sunday. The company only launched the thing two weeks ago.
Buzz Around the Office
Pun of the Day (Mashable)
You're not unqualified for the job...you're just "differently" qualified.
List of the Day: Horrible Boss Tips
There are things you can do to make working with a bad boss a little more tolerable.
1. Try to limit your interactions so you spend less time with them.
2. Speak up for yourself; it may help you gain respect.
3. Look on the bright side: You're learning what not to do when you're the boss.
(Source: Glassdoor)
For all the news you need throughout the day, follow techFINSider on Twitter and Facebook.
A great resume is the key to landing an interview.
Does yours tell a compelling story – highlighting your accomplishments, focusing on your strengths, and reflecting your personal brand? If not, we can help.
Remember Me?
Forgot Password?


text:
Heart failure (also known as congestive heart failure or CHF), is a condition in which your heart is not pumping blood efficiently. Although heart failure is a serious condition, in most cases, it is treatable and may not be life-threatening.
What Causes Heart Failure?
Heart failure can develop quickly or slowly. The most common causes of heart failure are coronary heart disease (heart attacks), high blood pressure and diabetes.
Learn about heart problems in our health encyclopedia.
Other causes of heart failure include:
Heart Failure Symptoms
Heart failure symptoms may include:
If you have chest pain or other symptoms of heart attack (pressure, squeezing or fullness in the center of the chest; indigestion or heartburn; pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach; shortness of breath; sudden excessive sweating; nausea; dizziness; or fatigue), call 911 immediately.
Heart Failure Treatment
After a comprehensive evaluation is performed (blood work and echocardiogram) and the cause of heart failure is determined, specific therapy will be started. Generally, referral to acardiologist or heart failure management program will be made. Therapy may include lifestyle changes, medications and/or surgery. In severe cases of heart failure, referral to a heart failure transplant program should be made.
Lifestyle changes that can help to control heart failure include:
Check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
Medications for the treatment of heart failure may include:
If you are diagnosed with heart failure, your doctor will work with a team of health care professionals at Wake Forest Baptist Health to help you determine your treatment options. Your team may include heart doctors (cardiologists), nurse specialists and others.
You may request an appointment with a Heart Center doctor by filling out our online form.
Learn more about Wake Forest Baptist's cardiology services.
Learn which foods are heart-healthy and how they can help prevent heart disease from the cardiologists at Wake Forest Baptist Heath in Winston-Salem, NC.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.


text: I am trying to install Google Sketchup and I am getting a message that something else is being installed and I can't proceed until that finishes. This happened once before but after hitting retry a few times, the program I was trying to install started. I am not installing anything right now. How can i find out what is being installed and how to stop it?


text:
The Shameful Sham of Shamrock Shakes
An Event that's Absolutely Sublime
ED this VD? It's not you, it's meat.
Vegetarian? Yeah, Yeah, Yeah!
Cancer Prevention Can Start in the Checkout Line
Dear Oikos: Take a Page from Joey Gladstone and Cut It Out!
Just Because the Weather's Getting Cold, Doesn't Mean You Have To!
The First Lady Can Turn this Milestone into Motivation
Guiding the Dietary Guidelines for 2015: It's People.
2013: The Final Countdown
February 2014
January 2014
Full Blog Archive >
Rather than working to further distinguish itself from the burger-slinging joints, Taco Bell has leapt into a seemingly industry-wide competition to turn breakfast into the worst meal of the day.
Taco Bell's new breakfast menu launched last month, though the company had been hyping up certain items for weeks—especially the Waffle Taco and the A.M. Crunchwrap. Meanwhile, Dunkin' Donuts launched its portable-but-not-potable Eggs Benedict Sandwich. McDonald's is considering extended breakfast hours and has been offering free coffee to lure customers.
Taco Bell's sausage A.M. Crunchwrap clocks in at 710 calories, 46 g of total fat, 14 g of saturated fat, and 135 mg of cholesterol. Breakfast should wake you up—not send you spinning into a nutritional nightmare!
Then there's the Waffle Taco, which Taco Bell considers its breakfast coup d'état. It's a waffle folded around a sausage patty, egg, and cheese. The Waffle Taco looks like something that can stain your shirt and clog your arteries at the same time.
With 370 calories, 23 g of total fat, 7 g of saturated fat, and 115 mg of cholesterol, the sausage Waffle Taco will certainly leave its mark on your waistline.
PCRM has deemed Taco Bell the April recipient of its SICK (Social Irresponsibility towards Consumers and Kids) Award because of its marketing of these new high-cholesterol items. Presented to companies that heavily promote unhealthful foods, the SICK Award highlights the role marketing plays in America's nutrition crisis.
So what can you do on those busy mornings when you don't have time to cook? Try making a big pot of oatmeal at the start of the week and dish it out in travel-sized containers. Or if you're at Taco Bell, try the bean burrito. You can order it "Al Fresco" and reduce the fat by swapping the dairy for pico de gallo.
Fast food doesn't have to be bad food!
Catchy headlines equal clicks, clicks equal readers, and readers equal money. It's a formula the ever-changing news industry uses more frequently, as newsrooms get smaller and readers move quickly to the next trending topic.
So it's no surprise that when PloS One published a study that offered the counterintuitive assertion that vegetarians are unhealthy, news outlets jumped in with "clickbait" headlines.
No, it wasn't true. But it was a very clickable message. And in case you were drawn into that headline, here's the truth behind it:
An Austrian research team wanted to see how different diets affected health. But because they did not have enough vegetarians to study, they lumped together people eating fish and people who ate meat only occasionally—and called them all "vegetarians." And, indeed, this group looked less healthy overall than the dyed-in-the-wool carnivores.
However, the study looked at individuals during a snapshot in time and did not separate cause and effect. For example, individuals with health problems who adopted a fish/vegetarian diet in hopes of losing weight or curing heart disease were lumped in with others who had followed a fish/vegetarian diet for many years. The researchers themselves note this on page six:
"Potential limitations of our results are due to the fact that the survey was based on cross-sectional data. Therefore, no statements can be made whether the poorer health in vegetarians in our study is caused by their dietary habit or if they consume this form of diet due to their poorer health status."
Large prospective studies and randomized clinical trials showed just the opposite: vegetarians have much better health, compared with non-vegetarians. They have lower rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and lower BMIs. The Physicians Committee's recent multicenter GEICO study also showed better quality of life. Another recent study showed that eating seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day increases longevity.
So if someone at the water cooler starts telling you about how they'll be swapping their smoothies for sausage patties, let them know that just because it's trending, doesn't mean it's true.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, but just because March is ending, doesn't mean that colorectal cancer will simply disappear. To raise awareness one month out of the year, some folks will buy rubber wristbands. Others will put magnetic ribbons on their car or wear dark blue on Tuesdays. While the intentions are noble, they won't actually decrease anyone's risk of colorectal cancer. But there is one simple change everyone should make that can dramatically reduce the risk of colorectal cancer: ditching processed meat.
The evidence is clear—processed meat causes colorectal cancer. Processed meat products are "meats that have been preserved by smoking, salting, curing or adding other preservatives." This includes hot dogs, bacon, pepperoni, ham, and deli meats. Unfortunately, all of these are common items found on restaurant menus, in school cafeterias, and even in hospitals. Raising awareness about colorectal cancer involves spreading the word about the dangers of putting pepperoni on pizza, serving bologna on lunch lines, or hawking hot dogs at a baseball game. It takes more than ribbons and t-shirts to make a difference—it involves making a change and encouraging your loved ones to do the same, or even writing letters to local restaurants and asking them to take cancer-causing dishes off their menus.
From now on, instead of shelling out cash for a wristband you'll just toss on April 1st, how about skipping processed meat? Or if you're ahead of the game and have already eliminated these products from your diet, share our infographic illustrating all of the dangers of processed meat and convince a friend to Drop the Dog. Spread the word and save a life.
(Click for full-size image.)


text:
WASHINGTON, December 5 (RIA Novosti) American astronaut Scott Kelly and Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko acknowledged during a joint news conference Wednesday that their upcoming yearlong mission aboard theInternational Space Station (ISS) will be challenging, but will help advance scientific knowledge for possible future trips to asteroids and planets in our solar system.
"It's an honor to be chosen for this flight. We'll hopefully set the stage for sending humans beyond low Earth orbit someday, and one day to Mars," said Kelly about the mission, which will help NASA and the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) understand how the human body adapts to long space missions.
The spaceflight veterans, who have both made previous trips to the ISS and spent about 180 days total in space during their careers, are expected to launch to the station in the spring of 2015.
Kornienko, speaking from the Mission Control Center in Moscow, said he is excited about working with Kelly who he knows as "a highly trained professional and very good man and person, and I am happy to have him as a companion for a year."
"I am a professional and it is my job and I am eager to do this," Kornienko said. "Of course I understand it won't be easy. It will be hard."
The Russian space program has sent four cosmonauts into space to live for one year at the old Mir Station, the last trip was in 1999, but this upcoming trip will mark the longest mission in space for an American astronaut.
This mission will allow scientists to study the affect long term travel has physically and psychologically on the human body, such as intracranial pressure and vision impacts, bone loss, immune function over the 12-month period, as well as behavior, performance and crew interactions.
These studies will help scientists plan better and help minimize those issues for future space travel to destinations such as Mars.
Kelly, speaking from the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, said his family has been very supportive about his decision to spend one year in space and he said his nine-year-old daughter "screamed out 'awesome!'" when she heard the news.
Kornienko said his wife started crying when he told her of his upcoming yearlong trip, but he said that "it was my initiative" to go.
Both men know that spending an entire year in space in an isolated environment is not going to be easy, but Kelly said that he is, "up for that challenge" that can at times be routine since you wake up and go to bed in the same place and are "in your office for an entire year and not able to leave."
"The greatest concern is missing people, your loved ones, your family, your friends on a personal level that you are attached to on the ground," he said.
Kornienko said he is going to try and spend as much time with his friends and family before leaving for the yearlong trip, but indicated training will be intensive and might not allow for much extra time.
Although he may not be able to see much of his loved ones before he leaves, the Russian cosmonaut said he is looking forward to spending a year with Kelly.
"All politics is left behind or below when we are together," he said. "We are very friendly together and will be good to each other and friendly together during our expedition."
Kelly's identical twin brother, Mark Kelly, retired from the astronaut corps last year. Mark Kelly is married to former US Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who was critically wounded in an assassination attempt in January 2011 while Scott Kelly was living aboard the ISS.
According to a popular belief, if you wish upon a shooting star your wish will come true.
During a meteor shower a number of meteors are observed to radiate from one point of the night sky. The point from where the Quadrantid meteors appear to radiate is located within the extinct constellation Quadrans Muralis. On modern star charts, this radiant is located where the constellations Hercules, Boötes, and Draco meet in the sky. Meteors, which are small parts of a tail of the disintegrated comet, move along their orbit and cross the Earth orbit once a year, Vladimir Surdin, astrophysicist of the Steinberg Astronomy institute under the Moscow State University, says.
"Approaching the Sun comets lose their outer shell. Evaporation of gas occurs and the comet loses dust layers. When those small dust particles enter Earth atmosphere at a speed of more than 40 km per second and their air friction causes meteor flares. None of those particles reaches Earth and that is why they do not pose danger to us of aircraft."
With every meteor shower the Earth receives several tons of comet matter which is later discovered in the Antarctic ice in the form of small burned balls. By studying these traces it is possible to determine the structure of the areas of the Solar System where comets were formed. Even meteor flares are of great scientific values Vladimir Surdin says.
"Flares of comet particles show their chemical composition. By taking photos of the spectrum with lines of different chemical components we learn what these dust particles were made of and respectively the composition of their parent body."
Before comet particles burn in the atmosphere they pass through the route of the International Space Station (ISS) and numerous satellites. An attack of a meteor shower leaves microscopic hollow spots on the skin of ISS, Vladimir Surdin continues.
"No cases have been registered yet when a spacecraft skin was seriously damaged by small meteorites. But they damage the illuminators - they became less transparent and the solar power panels start generating less electricity. That is why it is better for the ISS not to encounter them and to make a turn to let most of the particles pass it by."
The intensity of Quadrantid meteor showers is different every year. It is difficult to say how strong the shower will be this time because comet matter is distributed along its orbit very unevenly, Igor Volkov, astrophysicist of the Steinberg Astronomy institute under the Moscow State University, says.
"Usually the point where the core of the comet nucleus was has a condensation of particles. The Earth does not always cross the same part of the shower. In case of a maximum close-in of the Earth and the former comet nucleus the heaviest meteor showers occur."
This was the case in 1966 with a Leonid meteor shower when up to 30 stars flared up every second. That meteor shower made it into textbooks. Though, such phenomena are very rare. Gradually shooting star showers such as Quadrantid, Leonid and others (about 20 are known) will get weaker. This decline process will take hundreds and even thousands years. But that does not mean that our remote descendants won't have an opportunity to watch meteor showers. New comets will close the Sun losing its matter and this means that new meteor rains will emerge.
Candidates will be subject to a prolonged televised selection process that will begin later this year.
"Gone are the days when bravery and the number of hours flying a supersonic jet were the top criteria," Norbert Kraft, Mars One's chief medical director and a former NASA researcher, said in a statement. "Now, we are more concerned with how well each astronaut works and lives with the others, in the long journey from Earth to Mars and for a lifetime of challenges ahead."
The first colonists will land on the Red Planed in April 2023. New members will arrive every two years after that. None of the Red planet pioneers, the company notes, will ever return to the Earth.
To cover the mission costs, about $6 billion, Mars One says it will launch a reality show, a sort of interplanetary reality show a la "Big Brother", and raise the needed funds by selling corporate sponsorships.
Mars One estimates that it will cost about $6 billion to put the first four astronauts on Mars. While this may seem like a daunting sum for a non-governmental entity, the company is confident it can raise the needed funds by selling corporate sponsorships.
While candidates for the Mars mission will be undergoing the selection process and the whole planet will be observing it on their TVs, Mars One will launch a communications satellite and a supply mission to Mars in 2016, then send a large rover to the Red Planet in 2018, according to the video.
The rover will find the most suitable site for the new Mars colony. After that in 2020 the company will send all necessary settlement components – habitat units, life-support equipment and another rover.
Mars One officials admit they have already approached a number of private spaceflight companies and secured one potential supplier for each colony component. SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket which is still under development but expected to perform its first flight next year, is expected to deliver many components of the first colony to the Red Planet.
Voice of Russia
Jan 19, 2013
Nowadays, finding a strange artifact in coal is a relatively frequent occurrence. The first discovery of this sort was made in 1851 when the workers in one of the Massachusetts mines extracted a zinc silver-incrusted vase from a block of unmined coal which dated all the way back to the Cambrian era which was approximately 500 million years ago. Sixty one years later, American scientists from Oklahoma discovered an iron pot which was pressed into a piece of coal aged 312 million years old. Then, in 1974, an aluminum assembly part of unknown origin was found in a sandstone quarry in Romania. Reminiscent of a hammer or a support leg of a spacecraft "Apollo", the piece dated back to the Jurassic era and could not have been manufactured by a human. All of these discoveries not only puzzled the experts but also undermined the most fundamental doctrines of modern science.
The metal detail which was recently found by Vladivostok resident is yet another discovery which perplexed the scientists. The coal in which the metal object was pressed was delivered to Primorye from Chernogorodskiy mines of Khakasia region. Knowing that the coal deposits of this region date 300 million years back, Russian experts inferred that the metal detail found in these deposits must be an age-mate of the coal.
When geologists broke the piece of coal in which the metal object was pressed into and spot-treated in with special chemical agents, it turned out that the metal detail was unusually light and soft. No more than seven centimeters long, the object was found to be composed of 98 percent aluminum and 2 percent magnesium. On the one hand, such an alloy stalled the scientists because nearly pure aluminum is very rarely found in nature. Thus, the detail was most definitely created artificially. On the other hand, however, when it became clear that the object was made from aluminum-magnesium alloy the experts quickly found an answer to the question of how a metal detail could withstand the ravages of time so well. The scientists explained that pure aluminum is increasingly prone to oxidization which contributes to the creation of a special layer protecting it from further corrosion. As a result, the metal detail made 98 percent from aluminum can endure not only high pressure but also heat and other severe natural conditions.
Another question that interests Russian scientists is whether the aluminum alloy is of Earthly origin. It is known from the study of meteorites that there exists extra-terrestrial aluminum-26 which subsequently breaks down to magnesium-26. The presence of 2 percent of magnesium in the alloy might well point to the alien origin of the aluminum detail. Nonetheless, further testing is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
The last property of the object that puzzled the scientists was its distinctive shape which was reminiscent of a modern tooth-wheel. It is hard to imagine that an object could take regular shape of a tooth-wheel with six identical 'teeth' naturally. Moreover, the intervals between the 'teeth' of the gear are curiously large in relation to the size of the 'teeth' themselves which might mean that the detail was a part of a complicated mechanism. Nowadays, such 'spare parts' are used in construction of microscopes and other mechanical appliances. This poses yet another unanswerable question to the modern scientists: how can the metal tooth-wheel be 300 million years old if the regular-shaped 'wheel' itself was created by man millions of years later.
After the discovery came public, conspirators were quick to dub it 'a UFO tooth-wheel'. Russian scientists, however, do not jump to conclusions and will run further tests to learn more about the strange artifact.
Yulia Zamanskaya
Jan 25, 2013
WEF experts contend that "given the pace of space exploration, it is increasingly conceivable that we may discover the existence of alien life or other planets that could support human life. In 10 years' time we may have evidence not only that Earth is not unique but also that life exists elsewhere in the universe." In this context, WEF team urges the global elite to prepare themselves and their nations for such discovery. The scientists suggest that new funding and new brain power will be needed to overcome the challenges that the humanity will face as a result of its encounter with an extra-terrestrial civilization. The world might even need to create artificial-intelligence emissaries to survive an inter-stellar crossing. The discovery of an Earth 2.0 or life beyond our planet might also inspire new generations of space entrepreneurs to meet the challenge of taking human exploration of the galaxy from the realm of fiction to fact.
At the same time, WEF experts do not believe that the discovery of alien life will change the fabric of human society in the short-run. While the discovery would certainly be one of the biggest news stories of the year and interest would be intense, it would not change the world immediately. Over the long run, however, the psychological and philosophical implications of the discovery could be profound. In the opinion of WEF scientists, "the discovery of even simple life would fuel speculation about the existence of other intelligent beings and challenge many assumptions that underpin human philosophy and religion."
All in all, it seems that humanity is heading to exciting times, and Davos may be the first trigger that will unleash a series of most extraordinary worldwide revel worldwide revelations.
Dartagnan: The danger of meteorites is due to the fact that a meteorite might fall on nuclear power plants. Just imagine an explosion of a nuclear power plant due to a meteorite. I think politicians should think twice about it.
If a very big meterorite falls on the Earth, it is not the meterorite which is going to destroy us, but the explosion of our nuclear power plants&the radiation.
Massive meteorite crash shakes Urals region in central Russia
Russian meteorite weighed 10 tons
The meteorite that struck the Russian region of Chelyabinsk was several meters in diameter, weighed around a dozen tons and had the energy of several kilotons, experts from the Russian Academy of Science say.
According to their estimates, the space object entered the atmosphere at a speed of 15-20 kilometers per second and burst into flames some 30-50 kilometers off the ground.
The fragments of the asteroid left a blazing trail in the sky and caused a strong hit wave. Most of the debris evaporated, while the remaining fragments froze over and could have come down as meteorites, scientists explained.
Astronomers say the two events were coincidental, and the objects were traveling in opposite directions. At least one scientist called it an exciting day and "like a shooting gallery here."
1,200 hurt in meteorite event - Interior Ministry
Some 1,200 people were hurt in the meteorite event in the Chelyabinsk region, a Russian Interior Ministry representative said in an update.
"As of now, 1,200 people are hurt in the meteorite fall in the Chelyabinsk region," he said.
GOOD Video. Thanks! Updated data:
Feb 21, 2013
The shiny 'door knob-looking' object, photographed by 'Curiosity' on January 30th, is only 35 pixels in size, given that 'Curiosity's' camera resolution is 150 microns per pixel and the object is approximately 2 meters away, the metallic item is around half a centimetre high. Despite its small size, the object has recently had a huge impact on geologists all over the world.
To many it seemed that 'Curiosity' has stumbled upon evidence of an ancient Martian civilisation, however, according to Ronald Sletten, from the Mars Science Laboratory team at the University of Washington, all that's been discovered is a simple 'ventifact'; a surface that has been wind-eroded by fine dust or sand particles hitting it over a great deal of time. In this sense, the object, though 'knob' shaped, is of a completely natural origin. Sletten explained that the 'handle' is actually "a part of the rock that is different, harder and more resistant to erosion than the the rock in which it is embedded. On Earth, as on Mars, you can often see knobs or projections from surfaces eroded by the wind, particularly when a harder, less erodible rock is on top. The rock on top of the projection is likely to be more resistant to wind erosion and protects the underlying rock from being eroded.", Sletten went on to explain; "the shiny surface suggests that this rock has a fine grain and is relatively hard. Hard, fine grained rocks can be polished by the wind to form very smooth surfaces. It also may be shiny because it is wind-blasted and therefore dust-free, while the surfaces not directly being eroded by wind may have a fine layer of reddish dust or rock-weathering rind. The sandblasted surfaces may reveal the inherent rock colour and texture."
One of the main criticisms of NASA's theory is that such a degree of erosion would require not only wind but water, which would only be possible if the planet had an atmosphere. Given that Mars did have such an environment several billion years ago, it is odd that that the tiny object was not weathered down completely. What is more, had this been a usual 'ventifact', as Sletten contends, 'Curiosity' would stumble upon such 'subjects of natural erosion' much more often. Another question hanging over NASA's official explanation for the 'door knob' is that 'ventifacts' are usually formed from rock but not metal. Furthermore, none of the examples of Earthly 'ventifacts' shown in the agency's brochure have such an unusual shape; none of them are as thin and protruding. It's thought then that the object in 'Curiosity's' photographs is almost too delicate and detailed to be a 'ventifact'.
More generally, there is widespread disappointment with the quality of NASA's explanation and the fact that the 'door knob' case was so rapidly closed. While Sletten's is a good theory, 'Curiosity' followers on Twitter express their unease with the reluctance of NASA scientists to study the unusual artefact further. Internet observers want the Mars rover to return to the site where the controversial image was taken to drill into the object, or at the very least to take another photograph. Curiosity is very well equipped for this as it carries 10 different scientific instruments including 17 cameras and a rock-boring drill, all of which were specifically constructed to aid the rover in its quest to explore the 'Red Planet'. Several days ago 'Curiosity' used its drill to collect samples by boring 2.5 inches into the surface, something that had never been done before.
Admittedly, nothing that Curiosity does on Mars is free; any decision to investigate the 'handle' would come at a cost; possibly requiring another scientific study to be sacrificed. However, looking through 'Curiosity' archives, it seems the 'knob', that might have been made by a long-extinct Martian civilisation, is one of the most intriguing discoveries that the Mars-rover has made to date and is therefore one worth studying in more depth. Moreover, given that 'Curiosity's' stated primary goal is geological research, the study of an unknown metallic object should fit squarely into that research category. The current explanation provided by NASA for the 'ventifact's' origins says nothing of its molecular composition and further research might shed light on what juxtaposition of elements or minerals might constitute the 'handle'.
About 50 fragments were found in the area. They are less than a centimeter in size and belong to the chondrite type, the most common variation of meteorites found on Earth, expert Viktor Grokhovsky of the Urals Federal University, told the Voice of Russia on Thursday.
"The fragments contain a standard number of minerals, including olivine, pyroxene, troilite and kamacite, Grokhovsky said. These minerals that can be discovered only in outer space confirm the fragments' extraterrestrial nature."
Scientists also denied rumors about the fragments allegedly containing new life forms, such as bacteria and viruses, something that is still being discussed on the Internet. Scientists explained that the chondrite-type meteorites cannot contain elements of organic compounds.
One of the larger fragments, yet to be plucked from Chebarkul Lake, left an eight-meter-wide hole in the ice covering the lake.
Mikhail Nazarov, deputy head of the Committee for Meteorite Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, likened the exploration of meteorites to inter-planetary expeditions. As for the Chelyabinsk meteorite, it may shed more light on the orifing of the Universe and the Solar System, Nazarov added.
"Meteorites appeared during the early stages of the formation of the Solar System, which is why they give us information about relevant processes," Nazarov said.
It is still unclear why no earth-based space surveillance station was able to duly spot the 10,000-ton meteorite, which was only tracked down after it entered the Earth's lower atmosphere. The fireball moved at a speed of about 30 kilometers per second, Mikhail Nazarov said.
"We failed to spot the asteroid-turned-meteorite in outer space because it was not that large, Nazarov says. The meteorite was moving in the lower atmosphere for half an hour, something that prevented us from taking any pre-emptive steps, including the evacuation of the population."
Meanwhile, local authorities are grappling with the aftermath of the meteorite blast that injured more than 1,000 people and damaged lots of buildings. About 40 people remain in hospitals, with no casualties reported.
Russia's Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov expressed hope that the Chelyabinsk meteorite will prompt scientists to create a comprehensive meteorite surveillance system. He also urged scientists to find ways to minimize the implications of meteoric shower.
Some pundits have, meanwhile, pointed to the necessity of re-introducing astronomy lessons in Russian schools, something that will help children to get better knowledge of meteorites.
Scientists from Russia's Urals Federal University have discovered a meteorite fragment weighing more than one kilogram (2.2 lbs), the largest fragment found so far following the meteorite strike in the Chelyabinsk Region on February 15
A total of more than 100 fragments have been found by the expedition along a 50 kilometer (30 mile) trail that followed the meteorite's flight path, said expedition chief Viktor Grokhovsky (photo)
Grokhovsky said earlier that it was a stony meteorite, some 10 percent of which is composed of iron.
US space agency NASA estimated the meteorite had been roughly 15 meters (50 feet) in diameter when it struck Earth's atmosphere, traveling several times the speed of sound. It exploded into a fireball brighter than the morning sun.
Mar 18, 2013
"We will practice an out-of-spaceship activity in compliance with the future Mars Programme and simulate a walk on Mars", Novitsky said.
The next after their landing Novitsky and his colleague Yevgeny Tarelkin used a centrifuge to carry out a manually controlled landing from the orbit on Mars.
They stayed on the ISS together with the NASA astronaut Kevin Ford 143 days.
A pilot, a doctor, a programmer, a tennis player… who has more chances to become an astronaut? Who chooses this 'unearthly' profession and remains faithful to it all his life? Voice of Russia correspondent Darya Manina spoke to future cosmonauts.
In Soviet times the requirements for future cosmonauts were the following: height – not more than 170cm, age – under 30, test pilot by training. Of course, there were many other criteria related to physical and mental health. But it was evident that to go into space one had to be a very experienced pilot
With the development of the space industry these requirements were later revised, attracting people of different occupations. In the 1980s the Soviet Union unveiled its plans for a Mars mission. Eight doctors were among those who had been trained for the mission, says Anatoly Murashov, participant in the stimulated Mars mission. "It was expected that the expedition would need an international crew of 15-16 members. The crew was supposed to reach the planet's orbit, land on its surface and travel back. The entire mission was expected to take several years, that is why several medics were required to be with the crew."
Russia's Star City outside Moscow, where the Gagarin Research-and-Testing Cosmonaut Training Center is located, announced its first ever open admission of volunteers willing to travel into space. Three hundred people from all over Russia applied via the Internet: they all had to be under 35 years, with higher education and no less than a 3 year's experience in working in aviation. Those who were shortlisted for the next round were asked to undergo physical tests. Only eight people managed to succeed and were listed into Star City's staff. This does not, however, mean that they will fly into space, says Pyotr Dubrov, one of those eight lucky candidates. "The first stage of training lasts 1.5-2 years during which we are taught the basics of piloted space exploration and space exploration in general. When the lectures are over we will have to pass a state exam to test our knowledge."
Only the final stage of the training will unveil those who will be allowed to fly. Everybody is inspired by the aim they all have. Outstanding cosmonaut Gherman Titov, who became the second man to orbit the Earth after Yuri Gagarin, recollects: "We all knew that the first manned space flight was about to take place. There were six of us training for the mission, and each of us dreamt of being the first. But the Vostok spacecraft was designed to carry only one cosmonaut."
Since then the number of seats onboard the Vostok spacecraft has been increased to six. Over the past 50 years 525 astronauts have travelled to space. Years of training will show whose names will be written in history books regarding space exploration.
Several suborbital tourist projects will be launched in the USA in 2013 and 2014: the non-professional astronauts will be taken to a height of 100 kilometres where weightlessness starts. However, experts say that all that is not quite real space. And only Russia can carry tourists to the International Space Station (ISS) today.
Talk about space tourism started in the 80s of the last century. A tourist perished during a test launch that took place in the USA. Only Russia has achieved tangible results in this field. 7 non-professionals have been successfully brought into orbit on the Russian Soyuz spaceships since 2001. The first was American Dennis Tito who paid 20,000 million dollars for his space flight in 2001 and who stayed 9 days in orbit. It was great and it was worth this money, Tito says.
After the U.S. space shuttles stopped flying into space, only the Russian Soyuz spaceships can carry cosmonauts to the ISS. The development of a tourist ship has been under work at the Russian Space Corporation "Energiya" for several years now. And all those who would like to rise as high as possible over the Earth will enjoy sub-orbital tourism. Such flights will be shorter, and besides, it is much easier to organize them, Editor-in Chief of the "News of Cosmonautics" magazine Igor Marinin says.
"To go into the Earth's orbit, a spaceship must have a speed of up to 8 kilometres per second, and it must have a similar speed while entering the atmosphere. It is a big problem because of overloads and temperature. And as regards suborbital tourism, a spaceship must have a speed of 1.5 kilometres per second to come to a height of 100 kilometres and then to come down. This option is affordable for people who are more or less healthy", Marinin said.
Suborbital flights will be cheaper than orbital flights. The Virgin Galactic Company promises to carry tourists into space for 2 million dollars, despite the fact that at the initial stage the price was only tens of thousands dollars. The first launch is planned for December of this year. The company's head billionaire Richard Branson says that he has always dreamed not only of a space flight but also of the possibility to share his experience with other people.
True, many experts call into question the success of Branson's project. The launch was delayed several times because there were some problems with the spaceship. And the flight on it is very risky because of the zero gravity problems. In this sense, flights to the ISS on the Russian Soyuz spaceships are an ideal tourist route, where both safety and impressions are guaranteed, experts say.
Yury Gagarin.
Russia marks Cosmonautics Day on Friday to commemorate the first manned space flight made on April 12, 1961 by Soviet cosmonaut Yury Gagarin, who made one complete orbit around the Earth aboard the Vostok spaceship. The mission lasted 1 hour and 48 minutes, heralding the beginning of the space age.
On April 12, 1961, Vostok 8K72K blasted off from Baikonur Cosmodrome to place into orbit Vostok spacecraft manned by Yury Gagarin.
That flight took just an hour and 48 minutes. Having orbited the Earth, Vostok successfully landed in Saratov Region of Russia. Gagarin ejected himself from the aircraft at the altitude of several kilometers and descended near the place of Vostok's landing by using the parachute.
The holiday was established in the Soviet Union one year later, on April 9, 1962.
Gagarin's flight was a major success for the Soviet space program, and opened a new era in the history of space exploration.
Gagarin became a national hero of the Soviet Union and eastern bloc and a famous figure around the world. Major newspapers around the globe published his biography and details of his flight. Moscow and other cities in the USSR held parades, the scale of which were second only to WWII Victory Parades. Gagarin was escorted in a long motorcade of high-ranking officials through the streets of Moscow to the Kremlin where, in a lavish ceremony, he was awarded the highest Soviet honour, the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, by the Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.
Even though those years were full of dramatic competitiveness between the two's space industries, they also symbolically reflected the start of the Russian-US scientific cooperation across-the-board.
Right now, the importance of global space systems can scarcely be overestimated with communication satellites greatly adding to stable TV and radio broadcasts, reliable weather forecasts and high precision navigation systems.
To fulfill a host of scientific experiments in outer space, the International Space Station (ISS) was created in 2000 – a space outpost which has received more than 150 astronauts in the past eight years.
Until today the commemoration ceremony on Cosmonautics Day starts in the city of Korolyov, near Gagarin's statue. Participants then proceed under police escort to Red Square for a visit to Gagarin's grave in the Kremlin Wall Necropolis, and continue to Cosmonauts Alley, near the Monument to the Conquerors of Space. Finally, the festivities are concluded with a visit to the Novodevichy Cemetery.
On April 7, 2011 United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring April 12 as the International Day of Human Space Flight.
Russia develops new-type spaceship
Russia is developing a principally new type of a spaceship for interplanetary flights, the head of the Roscosmos Space Agency told reporters on April 12, which is traditionally marked as Cosmonautics Day in Russia.
"We are already through with the technical design and the first unmanned mission by this new spacecraft is slated for 2018," Vladimir Popovkin said.
He also mentioned the ongoing upgrade of the workhorse Soyuz spaceship with a digital flight control system and a advanced rendezvousing system. Engineers are now working on a new engine and life-support system, Popovkin added.
Voice of Russia, Wikipedia, TASS
Canadian astronaut, commander of the International space station Christopher Hadfield has posted on social networks a video about daily life in the conditions of zero gravity.
A Proton M carrier rocket with an upper stage Briz-M carrying a Canadian satellite called the Anik G1 was launched today from the Baikonur Cosmodrome.
Roskomos said the launch went by without complications and was successful at 22:36 Moscow time from launch platform number 200 at Baikonur.


text:
Breakthrough Harnesses Light for Controlled Chemical ReactionApr. 24, 2014 One catalyst supplies electrons, other one controls position of raw material. Reactions are powered by visible light, not UV. Technique could allow creation of novel molecules for ... full story
Halving Hydrogen: First View of Nature-Inspired Catalyst After Ripping Hydrogen Apart Provides Insights for Better Fuel CellsApr. 23, 2014 A fuel cell catalyst that converts hydrogen into electricity must tear open a hydrogen molecule. Now researchers have captured a view of such a catalyst holding onto the two halves of its hydrogen ... full story
Gold Nanoparticles Help Target, Quantify Breast Cancer Segments in a Living CellApr. 23, 2014 A way to detect and measure cancer levels in a living cell by using tiny gold particles with tails of synthetic DNA has been developed by scientists. The process uses gold nanoparticles to target and ... full story
Following a Protein's Travel Inside Cells Is Key to Improving Patient Monitoring, Drug DevelopmentApr. 23, 2014 A technique to detect subcellular location of a protein has been developed by scientists. In science, "simple and accessible detection methods that can rapidly screen a large cell population ... full story
Steering Chemical Reactions With Laser PulsesApr. 23, 2014 Ultra short laserpulses in the femtosecond-range give scientists a powerful new method of controlling chemical reactions. A team of researchers could now show that the fragmentation of carbohydrates ... full story
Checking Up on Crude Oil in the Ground: Nanoreporters Tell 'Sour' Oil from 'Sweet'Apr. 22, 2014 Scientists have created a nanoscale detector that checks for and reports on the presence and concentration of hydrogen sulfide in crude oil and natural gas while they're still in the ... full story
Neuroimaging Technique: Live from Inside the Cell in Real-TimeApr. 22, 2014 A novel imaging technique provides insights into the role of redox signaling and reactive oxygen species in living neurons, in real time. Scientists have developed a new optical microscopy technique ... full story
First Size-Based Chromatography Technique for the Study of LiviApr. 22, 2014 Using nanodot technology, researchers demonstrated the first size-based form of chromatography for studying the membranes of living cells. This unique physical approach to probing cellular membrane ... full story
Surface Modification of Titanium Dioxide for Photocatalytic Degradation of Hazardous Pollutants Under Ordinary Visible LightApr. 22, 2014 Researchers have developed a modified photocatalyst which is economical and effective at transforming organic pollutants into harmless end products. Photocatalytic degradation is one of the highly ... full story
RNA Shows Potential as Boiling-Resistant Anionic Polymer Material for NanoarchitecturesApr. 22, 2014 Nanotechnology researchers have discovered new methods to build boiling-resistant nanostructures and arrays using a new RNA triangle scaffold. These new RNA nanoarchitechtures can be used to form ... full story
Cloaked DNA Nanodevices Survive Pilot MissionApr. 22, 2014 By mimicking a viral strategy, scientists have created the first cloaked DNA nanodevice that survives the body's immune defenses. Their success opens the door to smart DNA nanorobots that use ... full story
Progress Made in Developing Nanoscale Electronics: New Research Directs Charges Through Single MoleculesApr. 21, 2014 Scientists are facing a number of barriers as they try to develop circuits that are microscopic in size, including how to reliably control the current that flows through a circuit that is the width ... full story
Physicists Push New Parkinson's Treatment Toward Clinical TrialsApr. 21, 2014 The most effective way to tackle debilitating diseases is to punch them at the start and keep them from growing. Research shows that a small 'molecular tweezer' keeps proteins from ... full story
Building 'Smart' Cell-Based TherapiesApr. 17, 2014 A technology for engineering human cells as therapies has been developed by scientists. The the technology becomes activated only in diseased tissues. It sits on the surface of a cell and can be ... full story
Thinnest Membrane Feasible Has Been ProducedApr. 17, 2014 A new nano-membrane made out of the 'super material' graphene is extremely light and breathable. Not only can this open the door to a new generation of functional waterproof clothing, but ... full story
Chiral Breathing: Electrically Controlled Polymer Changes Its Optical PropertiesApr. 17, 2014 Electrically controlled glasses with continuously adjustable transparency, new polarization filters, and even chemosensors capable of detecting single molecules of specific chemicals could be ... full story
Global Scientific Team 'Visualizes' a New Crystallization ProcessApr. 16, 2014 By combining a synchrotron's bright X-ray beam with high speed X-ray cameras, scientists shot a 'movie' showing how organic molecules form into crystals. This is a first. Their new ... full story
Relieving Electric Vehicle Range Anxiety With Improved BatteriesApr. 16, 2014 A new nanomaterial called a metal organic framework could extend the lifespan of lithium-sulfur batteries, which could be used to increase the driving range of electric vehicles. Researchers added ... full story
Environmentally Compatible Organic Solar Cells in the FutureApr. 16, 2014 Environmentally compatible production methods for organic solar cells from novel materials are in the focus of "MatHero". The new project aims at making organic photovoltaics competitive to their ... full story
Key to Easy Asthma Diagnosis Is in the BloodApr. 15, 2014 Using just a single drop of blood, a team of researchers has developed a faster, cheaper and more accurate tool for diagnosing even mild cases of asthma. This handheld technology — which takes ... full story
- Halving hydrogen: First view of nature-inspired catalyst after ripping hydrogen apart provides insights for better fuel cells
- Gold nanoparticles help target, quantify breast cancer segments in a living cell
- Following a protein's travel inside cells is key to improving patient monitoring, drug development
- Steering chemical reactions with laser pulses
- Checking up on crude oil in the ground: Nanoreporters tell 'sour' oil from 'sweet'
- Neuroimaging Technique: Live from inside the cell in real-time
- First size-based chromatography technique for the study of livi
- Surface modification of titanium dioxide for photocatalytic degradation of hazardous pollutants under ordinary visible light
- RNA shows potential as boiling-resistant anionic polymer material for nanoarchitectures
- Cloaked DNA nanodevices survive pilot mission
- Progress made in developing nanoscale electronics: New research directs charges through single molecules
- Physicists push new Parkinson's treatment toward clinical trials
- Building 'smart' cell-based therapies
- Thinnest membrane feasible has been produced
- Chiral breathing: Electrically controlled polymer changes its optical properties
- Global scientific team 'visualizes' a new crystallization process
- Relieving electric vehicle range anxiety with improved batteries
- Environmentally compatible organic solar cells in the future
- Forever clean? Metal–organic 'micromushrooms' repel all
- Bioanalysis: Microbeads are easily fixed
- Virus structure inspires novel understanding of onion-like carbon nanoparticles
- No compromises: Short, flexible, reusable AFM probe
- Tiny step edges, big step for surface science
- Scale model WWII craft takes flight with fuel from the sea concept
- Trees go high-tech: Process turns cellulose into energy storage devices
- Organic solar cells more efficient with molecules face-to-face
- Amino acid fingerprints revealed in new study
- Self-assembled silver superlattices create molecular machines with hydrogen-bond 'hinges' and moving 'gears'
- Tiny power generator runs on spit
- Structural insights into inner workings of viral nanomachine
- Tiny biomolecular tweezers studying force effect of cells
- Simple microfluidic devices now have valves
- Low-cost, highly efficient OLED lighting: Europium complexes emit red light at record efficiency
- Sticky composites improve, 'green up' lithium-ion batteries: New battery technology employs multifunctional materials
- New gel to promote bone growth on implants used in surgical procedures
- Innovative technique provides inexpensive, rapid, detailed analysis of proteins
- 'MaMTH' advance: New technology sheds light on protein interactions
- Nanotube composites greatly increase efficiency of next generation of solar cells
- High-strength materials from the pressure cooker: New materials made quickly and in eco-friendly manner
- Bionic plants: Nanotechnology could turn shrubbery into supercharged energy producers
- Heart cells respond to stiff environments
- New nanoparticle that only attacks cervical cancer cells
- Big data tackles tiny molecular machines
- DNA can be damaged by very low-energy radiation
- Roomy cages built from DNA could one day deliver drugs, devices
- Better way to make unnatural amino acids devised
- Oxygen's different shapes described
- Origin of life: Simulating how Earth kick-started metabolism
- Building new drugs just got easier
- Good vibes for catalytic chemistry: A way to make better catalysts for meds, industry and materials
- Turing's theory of chemical morphogenesis validated 60 years after his death
- Elevated mercury from in-ground wastewater disposal found by researchers
- Synthetic biologists shine light on genetic circuit analysis
- Biomolecular tweezers facilitate study of mechanical force effects on cells and proteins
- Blue paint on Japanese bullet trains can inhibit bacterial growth
- Promising news for producing fuels through artificial photosynthesis
- Pumping iron: A hydrogel actuator with mussel tone
- Synthetic spider silk strong enough for a superhero
- An environmentally friendly chemical reaction that does not waste any atoms
- Pulling polymers leads to new insights into their mechanical behavior
- It slices, it dices, and it protects the body from harm: 3-D structure of enzyme that helps defend against bacteria
- Big step for next-generation fuel cells and electrolyzers
- Peptides imaged in unprecedented detail in laser lab
- Unhealthy attachments: Deep look at the structure of myelin membranes
- Technique to create holes in graphene could improve water filters, desalination
- Tracking catalytic reactions in microreactors
- Microparticles show molecules their way: Three-dimensional structures using three chemically different patches
- Bioengineered growth factors lead to better wound healing
- Roots to shoots: Hormone transport in plants deciphered
- Synthetic molecular oscillator discoveries may help create artificial cells
- Breakthrough development of flexible 1D-1R memory cell array
- Artificial leaf jumps developmental hurdle
- Better way to purify peptide-based drugs by adding atoms to the mix
- Solar-induced hybrid fuel cell produces electricity directly from biomass
- Advanced techniques yield new insights into ribosome self-assembly
- Capillaries will measure diffusion, help in more efficient medical treatment
- Sometimes the average just isn't good enough: Averaging not always best for analying protein crystal structures
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Monday, April 21, 2014
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Monday, April 14, 2014
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Monday, April 7, 2014
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Monday, March 31, 2014
Friday, March 28, 2014
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Monday, March 24, 2014
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Friday, March 21, 2014
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Friday, March 14, 2014
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Monday, March 10, 2014
Friday, March 7, 2014
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Sunday, March 2, 2014
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Monday, February 24, 2014
Friday, February 21, 2014
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Friday, February 14, 2014
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Monday, February 10, 2014
Friday, February 7, 2014
Subscribe for Free
Stay up to date with ScienceDaily's Organic Chemistry News, delivered daily to your email inbox or RSS reader:


text:
Learn More
Menorah Medical Center is a full-service, acute care hospital located on the corner of 119th and Nall in Overland Park, Kansas.
As a recognized leader in healthcare, Menorah Medical Center attracts physicians who are leaders in their field. Skilled. Compassionate. Dedicated.
Whether your needs are urgent and critical or simply routine and preventative, our capabilities allow us to ensure your healthcare needs are met and your expectations exceeded.
From accepted insurance plans to information on your hospital stay, you will find it all here. Friends and family can find information on visiting hours, ordering flowers or sending an email to a patient.
Review our calendar for health screenings and more, and utilize our health encyclopedia to research medical conditions and treatments.
Whether you are just starting out, hoping to advance your career, looking to give back to the community, or gain valuable education, Menorah Medical Center offers a variety of opportunities to meet your needs.
Cardiac Electrophysiology (1)
Cardiology (1)
Pacemaker (1)
card (1)
cardio (1)
cardiologist (2)
cardiology (2)
electrophysiologist (1)
ep (1)
heart (2)
heart attack (1)
heart care (2)
heart specialist (2)
ic (1)
ice (1)
valve (1)
Download Menorah's MidwestPhysicians Directory
Copyright 2012 ehc.com; All rights reserved. Terms & Conditions of Use | Privacy Statement
Notices: Privacy Practices | Nondiscrimination
Compliance | Quality & Safety


text:
Office of the City Manager
SB 1186 - $1 Mandated Fee on All Business Licenses and Renewals
On September 19, 2012, Governor Brown signed Senate Bill (SB 1186) which implemented a $1 state mandated fee from all local businesses. The primary intent of SB 1186 is to limit the liability of businesses against lawsuits under the American Disability Act (ADA). Beginning on January 1, 2013 the City of Pasadena will charge an additional $1 fee to all local businesses including rental properties, out-of-town businesses, home-based businesses, contractors, exempt businesses, and non-profits. To find out more information regarding this bill visit the websites below:
• The Division of the State Architect:
• California Commission of Disability Access:
What does this mean for Pasadena Enterprise Zone Businesses? As many Pasadena businesses may be aware, the Pasadena Enterprise Zone does offer local fee waivers to certain businesses within the Zone's boundaries. However, the state mandated fee cannot be waived. Therefore, even those exempt businesses will begin to see the $1 fee on their business license renewal forms beginning January 1, 2013.
As a general rule, all Pasadena businesses that receive a business license renewal must complete the contact information area, follow all posted directions on the renewal statements, and send the completed forms back to the City of Pasadena Business License Department. Please don't forget this very important step.
For more information or questions regarding your business license statements, please contact Business License at (626) 744-4166. For information or questions regarding the Pasadena Enterprise Zone Program, contact Melissa Alva at (626) 744-7347.
Posted: 12/17/2012 08:05:00 AM
Department Home
2013 Operating Budget
Public Affairs
Media Relations
News Releases
Pasadena In Focus
Pasadena In Focus PDF Version & Past Issues
City Videos
KPAS - Live
KPAS - Schedule
City Hall Souvenirs
Contact Public Affairs
Economic Development
Art of Small Business Survival
Business Outreach/Support
Consumer Surveys
Opening a Business in Pasadena
Why Pasadena?
Citywide Wayfinding Program
Enterprise Zone
Are You In the Zone?
State Incentives
Annual Reports
Employer Assistance
Economic Development Strategy
Real Property
R & D Incentives
Technology Links
Northwest Programs
Ambassador Youth Program
Economic Impact
Northwest Events Calendar
Northwest Commission
Northwest Program Maps
Vacant Parcels
Northwest Online Business Listing
Film Office
Scouting Library
Film Calendar
Film Permits
Base Camps
Wedding Photography
Filming Incentives
Filming Rules
Creating a Special Filming District
Filming Ordinance
Guidelines for Frequently Filmed Areas
Filming & Neighborhoods
Filming In Your Neighborhood
Your Property in a Starring Role
Special Events
Inquiry Sheet
Event Fees
City Hall Weddings
Events & Traffic Advisories
Central Arroyo Calendar
Strategic Plan
Legislative Resources
Annual Report 2013
2011 Pasadena Citizen Survey
CM's Weekly Newsletters
CM's Weekly Newsletters Archive
City links
Most Requested
Most Requested
Most Requested Pages
Visiting Pasadena
News Releases
Job Opportunities
Temporary Overnight Parking Exemptions
Pay Parking Tickets
Gold Line Information
Police Department
Water & Power
Government Services
Resident Services
Departments & Agencies
Departments & Agencies
City Clerk
City Manager
City Attorney/City Prosecutor
Human Resources
Human Services & Recreation
Information Technology
Planning & Community Development
Public Health
Public Works
Water and Power
City Organizational Chart
More Department Information & Services
Affiliated Agencies
Burbank Airport Authority
Gold Line Transit Authority
Pasadena Center Operating Company
Pasadena Community Access Corporation
Rose Bowl Operating Company Board
Mayor, Council & Commissions
Mayor, Council & Commissions
Mayor and Council Districts
Office of the Mayor
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
More Mayor & District Information
Find My Council District, Pasadena Unified School District & Neighborhood Associations
PUSD Board of Education
Voting & Election FAQs
City Council
City Council Agendas
City Council Videos
City Commissions
City Strategic Plan
City Services
City Services & Payments
City Services & Payments
E-Pay Services
Arts Tickets
Business License Renewal
Overnight Parking
Parking Tickets
Parking Permits
Utility Bill Payment
Yard Sale Permits
City Services
News Releases
Resident Services
Business Services
Government Services
Visitor Information
Citizen Service Center
All City Services
Employment Services
City Job Opportunities
Comments & Concerns
Contact the City & Departments
City Phone Directory
Forms & Permits
Forms & Permits
Forms & Permits
Alarm Permits
Birth/Death Records
Building Permit
License Applications
Film Permits
Parking Citation Forms
Parking Permit - Annual
Parking Permit - Overnight
Yard Sale Permit
View All
You are here:
Office of the City Manager
Economic Development
SB 1186 - $1 Mandated Fee on All Business Licenses and Renewals
About The City
City Phone Directory
Contact the City
Citizen Service Center
Closed Friday Schedule
City Organizational Chart
Employee Access Portal
Pasadena History
Pasadena Facts & Statistics
Public Memorials & Monuments
City Vision, Mission & Values
Getting Around Pasadena
Website Accessibility
Privacy Statement
Citizen Service Center
Online Resident Services
Employment & Volunteering
City News & Media
Parks & Recreation
Transportation & Parking
Utilities, Trash & Recycling
Events & Culture
Housing & Communities
Education & Libraries
Health Services
Public Safety
Pasadena Facts
Annual Events
Calendar of Events
Pasadena In Focus
Local Attractions
Nearby Attractions
Getting to Pasadena
Transportation & Parking
Online Business Services
Broadband Services for Business
Business Assistance
Business Seminars
Doing Business with the City
Economic Development
Pasadena First: Buy Local
E-Pay Services
City Government
Mayor & City Council
Public Records
City GIS
Commissions & Committees
Budget & General Plan
Pasadena Water & Power
Green City
Employment & Volunteering
Disaster Preparedness
Contact the City (626) 744-4000
Copyright 2014 © Pasadena. All rights reserved.


text:
Vilijus Vaisvila was born in 1955 in Siauliai, Lithuania where he still currently resides. After graduating from Siauliai Art School he studied at the prestigious Vilnius Art Academy where he earned a degree in ceramic and art teaching. Vaisvila does paintings on canvas in both a realistic and surrealistic manner, metal and wood sculpture, and also paints portraits using very unique techniques. His compositions usually are created parallel to the surface of the canvas to offer the viewer a clear perception of the entire piece. Vaisvila's works are based on the contrast between the outward tranquility and internal tension. He remains a well known painter not only in Baltic countries and Scandinavia but also in Europe and the United States. He has had exhibitions in London, Bromella, Oslo, Chicago, and he also participated in the 2004 Artville exhibition in Copenhagen. For more information visit official artist site: http://vaisvila.com Artist facebook profile: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000678430339
For Mark Larson (March 3, 1964, Portland, Oregon), a former nature painter and Portland, Oregon native who now lives and works in Tacoma, WA, this statement could not be more apt. Inspired by his travels to Europe beginning in 1999 with his wife Andree, an art historian, Mark underwent a personal and artistic renaissance of his own, literally overnight. Artist site http://marklarsonart.com Reference http://marklarsonart.com/about


text:
You have two choices when getting a used auto in Austin: pay in full or finance gradually. Funding improves the complete cost of the auto because you're also spending for the cost of credit history, featuring interest and other loan costs. You additionally need to consider just how much you could take down, the month-to-month repayment, the loan term, and the annual percentage rate (APR). Rates typically are higher and loan periods shorter on utilized vehicles compared to on new ones.
Trying to find the very best Used Cars Austin?
Dealerships and loan providers offer a variety of loan terms. Shop around, contrast deals, and bargain the very best deal you can.
If you're a first-time customer– or if your credit history isn't really wonderful– beware concerning special financing deals. They could require a huge deposit and a high APR. If you accept financing that brings a high APR, you might be taking a huge threat.